We are back with a new season of The Scripture Study Project with an all new approach. This season we are asking questions--sometimes hard, often personal, always important--that have everything to do with our relationship with God and then studying scriptures in search of truth and understanding. This episode we start with our first question of the season drawn from Jesus' own word: do I really have to be "perfect"? The answer, and a study of that answer, takes us from the sermon on the mount to the calling of apostles to our own personal wrestles with perfection.
Show Notes:
Russel M. Nelson, "Perfection Pending"
Jeffrey R. Holland, "Be Ye Therefore Perfect--Eventually"
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Malachi was a messenger, and he prophesied of other messengers to come. Of course John the Baptist stands out as one primary fulfiller of prophesy; but all of us in some small way can be messengers who prepare the way of the Lord. This episode, our final this season, and our final weekly episode of our podcast, we reflect on five years of podcasting and the "messages" we have learned, loved, and hoped to share with you.
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Music: by Steve Oxen
My grandfather was an architect. I remember visiting him in his office and seeing the tools laid out on his basement drafting board and being captivated by the idea that someone could plan such large buildings. As I've grown older I often think of similarities between designing and drafting a building and our efforts to conscientiously plan and live a life. In this episode we study the words of two prophets--Haggai and Zechariah--focused on the reconstruction of the temple at Jerusalem and, concurrently, the reconstruction of the Israelites life with the Lord. Study along and consider how you can better build your life this next year.
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Music: by Steve Oxen
At the end of the book of Zephaniah, the prophet expresses that in the last days, "the king of Israel, even the Lord, is in the midst of thee". Imagine for a moment: what if we took that verse literally and pictured arriving home today from work or school or shopping to find Him in our living room. What would you think and feel if He were there? Would there be relief or reservation? Would there be excitement or anxiety? Would you rush to meet him or would you want to rush to complete some procrastinated act of kindness? Would you be ready or wish you had more time to repent? This week we study Nahum through Zephaniah and focus on three ideas that can help us better prepare for the Second Coming of Christ.
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The story of Jonah is a masterpiece of scriptural story that weaves together a very human and relatable character in Jonah with a compelling illustration of the true character of the Lord interlaced with suspense and surprise. It may be one of the best books in our recent study to liken to ourselves. In this week's study we do just that and ask the question, "What am I running away from?"
Show Notes:
Steven J. Lund, "Flashes of Light"
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Music: by Steve Oxen
I remember years ago watching an episode of a hidden camera tv show where actors acted out a scene where one man, dressed as someone living on the streets, was given money by other only to have that money stolen by some mocking teenagers. The episode focused on the actions of the surrounding people who did know they were watching and actor portrayal, to see if they would intervene, comfort the victim, or just walk on. In this sort of modern day reenactment of the good Samaritan, although some did stop to help, it was surprising to the hosts of the show how many people walked by without any action. If Obadiah were to describe it he might say they "stood on the other side" or "looked on" when someone was hurt. In this episode we study two chastisements Amos and Obadiah give related to our relationship with God and His children that might be painfully relevant to us today.
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Music: by Steve Oxen
Recently I heard a description of some of the reasons why members of the Church have struggled or are struggling with their faith. For a small group, they struggle because they no longer believe the Church is true. For a larger group, they struggle because they do not believe the Church is good. However, for the largest group they struggle because they do not feel like they belong in the Church. In our study this week we read two prophets speaking to people who may be felt this same lack of belonging and we identify both truths about the Lord and possible applications for us that help heal that hurt.
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There's a story told almost 100 years ago in a Church magazine about a young man named Creed Haymond who ran track for his college. The night before a meet his coach offered the team alcohol to help them relax for the next day's races. Creed refused, multiple times, and to the chagrin of his coach and teammates. The end of the story is powerful (and you can read it if you click the link in our show notes), but it's actually the middle of the story itself that interests us this week. In this episode we study the great story of Daniel, Mishael, Hananiah, and Azariah and ask the question: how can I live in the modern world and be both true to my beliefs and also harmonious with others?
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Hebrew prophets were valued because of their ability to foresee coming events and, then, warn people in the present. However, the true test of this foresight is, of course, whether or not these visions materialize. Today we study some of the prophet Ezekiel's most far-reaching declarations and see clear fulfillment in our own day.
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I used to play a game with my seminary students called "Boo Speak" where I would invite a student to leave the room and then, with the students left in the room, pick a word that we would try and eliminate from that student's vocabulary by sheer peer pressure. Once we had decided on a word we would invite that student back in the room. I would have a conversation with the student and whenever he would say the word we would all say "boo" and/or provide other negative feedback. It was fascinating to watch as some students really did stop using the chosen word where other students became more adamant about using it. This week we finish our study of Jeremiah the prophet who was, for lack of a better phrase, "boo-ed" for his message and ministry by the very people he was trying to save, and ask ourselves what can we learn from a "boo-ed" prophet?
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I love art museums, and in recent years, I've had multiple chances to attend a few and one thing I've noticed, repeatedly, is the vast breadth of color and emotion represented in the displayed art. Incredible paintings of bright flower gardens on warm days are balanced by emotional paintings of dark caverns or shrouded faces. I've come to appreciate the tug on my emotions as I feel, often in the same room, enlightened and pained, lifted by beauty and confronted with ugliness.
In our study this week we figuratively walk through the Art Gallery of Jeremiah and feel many of those same emotions as we search for truths that can sustain us in moments of needed perseverance.
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There are some pressing questions we must address this week: how can you make shapes and animals out of pancake batter, what's the best way to eat a strawberry, and how cay you maximize the milk-to-cookie ratio of an oreo. These questions, as outlandish as it sounds, will help us better answer other questions. How can I fast with my eye single to God's purpose? How can I truly delight in the Sabbath? How can I better recognize and emulate the Savior's ministry? This week we study our final block of scriptures from Isaiah in search of answers to these questions.
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Years ago I studied Isaiah 53 with a group of teenagers in a seminary class. As part of our experience I gave students a small piece of cardstock with a silhouette of Jesus printed on it on which I had asked them to write descriptions of the Savior they had found in their study. After class, as I was picking up the room, I noticed one card lying on the ground. I picked it up, turned it over, and read the words, "Are you really there?" That question has lodged in my mind and heart and has dramatically shaped the way I seek to study and teach the scriptures. In this episode, we have perhaps some of the best text in the Hebrew Bible answering that exact question.
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I once watched as someone illustrated Isaiah's visions and prophecies by drawing him as a stick figure then drawing a telescope in front of his face which indicated that Isaiah could see, both what was really close at hand, but also what was coming in the near future (for him, 150 years away) and the distant future (our day). In our study this week we dive into what scholars often call 2nd Isaiah because his focus seems to shift to the future. While some contend that this shift indicates a different author writing at a later time, many others, including our Book of Mormon prophets, knew him to be visionary and blessed with the spirit of God.
So what happens, then, when you take a telescopic prophet and combine it with a microscopic lens? In our episode this week we look deep at a few aspects of Isaiah's writings that have powerful and immediate impact for us.
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When Krista and I were first married she introduced me to the idea of "empty calories"--foods that you could eat but that would give little to no nutrition (this was how she described many of the things I had grown used to eating in college). This week we Isaiah 13-35 and look at the things Isaiah describes that are the spiritual version of empty calories and, conversely and much more importantly, the things truly feed the soul.
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Some commentators have described the book of Isaiah the climactic book of the Hebrew Bible or Old Testament. Isaiah's writings were certainly important to many later writers, including Nephi, Abinadi, Mormon, and Jesus Christ himself. When describing his own passion for the words of Isaiah, Nephi said, "my soul delighteth in his words. For I will liken his words unto my people, . . . for he verily saw my Redeemer, even as I have seen him. . . . And now I write some of the words of Isaiah, that whoso of my people shall see these words may lift up their hearts and rejoice for all men. Now these are the words, and ye may liken them unto you and unto all men" (2 Nephi 11: 2, 8). This week we begin our study Isaiah and aim for both excitement for and skill at studying the words of this pivotal prophet.
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One of my favorite things about learning from the Lord is that He teaches with images, stories, and symbols. I learned this week that the Hebrew word "māšāl" translated in verse 1 as "proverb" is translated in many other places as "parable". In other words, this book is a book of mini parables that, as we'll learn together, help us practice living a God-like life.
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I searched for the word "Psalms" on the Church homepage this week and found that almost every General Conference return going on for multiple pages was a talk with a title taken from a psalm. From Pres. Nelson's famous, "Joy Cometh in the Morning" to Elder Bednar's quotable "A Broken Heart and a Contrite Spirit" to Elder Holland's emotional "Like a Broken Vessel", it's clear that our Church leaders know and love the Psalms. Similarly, Jesus and his apostles quoted from Psalms over 100 times in the New Testament which is not only the most of any OT book quoted, but over half of the overall quotes altogether. Over the next three weeks we get to study the powerful truths and moving evocations in these collected words, and in this episode, we're providing some powerful tools to give you a fresh and faith-fulfilling study.
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Music: by Steve Oxen
One thing that took getting used to as I prepared for a mission to Germany was the Germany fairy tale. Contrary to many romantic tales where heroes prevail against evil and receive rewards for their efforts, Germany fairy tales contain stories where good and bad often happen unexpectedly and to unexpected people: often the hero loses all while the village fool gets incredible fortune. I recently listened to a discussion about the history of the fairy tale which indicated that the modern, more romantic versions of fairy tales may have a detrimental effect in conveying to children that if bad things happen to you must be doing something wrong, because only the wicked get punished and only the heroes earn rewards. In our study of Job this week we look at three different ways to read the book of Job that might help us push past the romantic and add some depth to our understanding of blessing and trial, difficulty and perfection.
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Years ago in a seminary class where we were studying a scriptural account of a woman, one of the young men blurted out that he felt the lesson didn't apply to the boys in the class because it was about a woman in the scriptures. Immediately one of the older girls in class responded that girls spent much of their scripture study efforts applying lessons learned from stories about men, and that if they could do it, so could he. That young man, hopefully, learned a valuable truth. It is an unfortunate fact that we have precious few records of women's interactions with God in scripture. However, we can make the most of these few accounts by giving them extra attention and appreciating the universal lessons that can be learned by all of us.
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I've spent the last month getting to know and serve with the newly-called seminary teachers in my local stakes. As I talk with these amazing people it's obvious that they feel the weight of undertaking one of the most demanding (and rewarding) callings in the Church. I was thinking about them when I read one of my favorite verses of scripture in this week: Nehemiah 6:3 which says, in part, "I am doing a great work". In this episode we consider our own "great work", whether that's a new calling, building or rebuilding a crucial relationship, tackling a particularly difficult self-improvement project, or ministering to someone in real need, and we'll identify a few places in our study this week that can hold important instructions for each of us.
In the Book of Mormon the prophet Nephi writes, prophetically, that people in a coming day will "trample under their feet…even the very God of Israel." In our bible study this week we see a fulfillment of that as wicked kings in both Israel and Judah turn repeatedly from the Lord to worship of false Gods. If nothing else, the tragic story of the fall of the kings we've been reading over the past weeks shows how difficult real and lasting conversion is. In this episode we highlight three scriptural phrases that can help us make lasting change.
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This week on the Scripture Study Project we start a new month, a new book of scripture (2 Kings), and a new podcast format. We dive into the miracles of Elisha, look at the unprecedented ways in which individuals are asked to show their faith to the Lord, and examine our own faithfulness.
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Years ago, Peggy Worthen, wife of newly installed BYU president Kevin Worthen, spoke to the gathered student body. In her talk she referenced highway 6, a Utah road that leads from Provo to the eastern side of the state, including the famous Arches National Park in Moab. In 1983 this road was blocked as a massive rockslide covered the road and blocked the river causing massive flooding. A new road had to be constructed. Although the temporary inconvenience was major, the newly build road was much wide, much safer, and ultimately a much better path through the mountains. Maybe it's because over the past years of living in the East we have come to appreciate the non-linear, swerving roads that spread like spiderwebs here and contrast sharply with the linear roads of the west, but I loved Sister Worthen's observation that "life is somewhat like Highway 6. Even though life in general is beautiful and scenic, the road we travel will not always be an uneventful, direct course, even when we know where we are going. We have to learn to be flexible and to deal with the unexpected."
In our study this week we look at the unexpected and hope to find a bit flexibility in our relationship with the Lord.
Show Notes:
Peggy Worthen, "An Unexpected Path," BYU Devotional 2014.
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Then Elder Hinckley told a story in general conference about a time when he worked at a trainyard and heard that a passenger train had arrived without the baggage car. He explained, “We discovered that the train had been properly made up in Oakland, California, and properly delivered to St Louis. . . . But in the St. Louis yards, a thoughtless switchman had moved a piece of steel just three inches. That piece of steel was a switch point, and the car that should have been in Newark, New Jersey, was in New Orleans, Louisiana, thirteen hundred miles away.” This week we take a look at switch points that made a significant and painful difference in the lives of David and Solomon and, by application, can be powerful to notice and avoid ourselves.
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I just started a summer institute class in my area (hello to any of my students that are listening) focused on improving our scripture study skills. This week we kicked off class by identifying the two most important questions asked in scripture. In Mosiah 11:27, King Noah asks after hearing about the prophet Abinadi, "Who is Abinadi, that I and my people should be judged of him, or who is the Lord that shall bring up on my people such great affliction?" Similarly, when Alma preaches to the people of Ammonihah they ask in indignation, "Who art thou…?" and "Who is God…?" (Alma 9:2, 6). In this episode we examine one of the most well-known stories in the Bible, David and Goliath, with a fresh perspective and in search of answers to those two questions.
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John 3:16 is one of, if note the most, oft-quoted verses of the Bible: "For God so loved the that He gave his only begotten Son". One of the reasons that verse has become so popular is that it represents a simple summary of a profound truth: God loves the world, including people such as you and me. In this episode we study the powerful story of Ruth that illustrates His love for all of us.
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There's a chilling story President Kimball relates in his book "Miracle of Forgiveness" about a man who pulls himself from alcoholism, practices sobriety for years and readies himself to be sealed in the temple with his wife, and then, on the eve of his temple visit, is drawn back into old vices by persuasive friends. Although a stark example, it's probably not too far off experiences we all have where we work and repent from mistakes and sins, enjoy rest and freedom, only to feel the pull of temptation and possibly the pain of relapse again. This week we study the book of Judges which is, in summary, that story told twelve times in a row. Study with us this week as we seek to interrupt the cycle and stay true to the God who delivers us.
I had a favorite object lessons from my seminary teaching days that introduced the idea of courage. I would take a rat trap, demonstrate how it could snap a pencil in half, then I would reset the trap and ask for a volunteer to touch the trap. Eventually, based on my incessant urging, a student would tentatively reach out their finger and touch the trap only to find, to their relief, that I had secretly disengaged the springs and the trap only appeared to be dangerous. We would then have a discussion about what affects--either for good or bad--our courage and/or our faith in the Lord. In this episode, we don't have a rat trap, but we do have a scripture story of danger and courage. The questions to us are the same as to those students: how courageous am I?
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Have you ever taken a "penny quiz"? If not, without looking, see how much you can remember about the penny. And when you realize you can only remember the barest details, ask yourself this: why is that something as common as a penny can be so easily forgotten? President Spencer W. Kimball once mused, "When you look in the dictionary for the most important word, do you know what it is?" His answer: the word remember. In this episode we study what the Israelites were commanded to remember as they exited their 40 year wilderness in search of perspectives or principles the Lord would have us remember as we exit from or exist in our own.
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Years ago, before even an apostle, President Eyring gave a powerful insight about spiritual sight. He taught that the repeated phrase, "thus we see" is often a scriptural writer pointing out what someone with spiritual sight will see when looking at particular story. That vision, often different from what others observe, enables that individual to act in closer accord with God's mind and will. In this episode we study what it is that grants that kind of spiritual sight, what to recognize when you have it, and what it might prompt you to do.
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Our temples, benefiting from centuries, even millennia of experience, are structured in such a way to help us have powerful revelatory experiences as we come closer to God. This week as we study the end of Exodus and selections from Lev, we look at what those specifics are and how we can both see them in our temple experience and incorporate them into our personal lives.
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This week we study a moment for Israel that taught them powerful truths about themselves and the Lord. Although they were not wrongly imprisoned like Joseph Smith, they had a "miserable experience" because of their own actions that brought them to "mourn". In that mourning, and in our own, we can see and learn truths about our Lord that can help us grow, heal, and change.
Show Notes:
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Continue in Patience," April 2010.
Neal A. Maxwell, "Patience," October 1980
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In this episode we study Exodus 18-20 but look, not just at the 10 commandments, but why they are worth thinking about in the first place.
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In our episode this week we study Exodus 14-17 and examine our relationship with our prophetic leaders. We'll examine miracles, murmuring, and mediation through rods and logs. Most importantly, we'll ask ourselves the question, "How can I draw more power from my prophetic leaders."
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Perhaps the most common question asked about God is, "Why does God allow bad things to happen?" One recent survey found that this question, in some form or another, is at the heart of almost every faith question or struggle individuals have. This week we tackle that question head on as we study the rising action of the Exodus in chapters 7-13, specifically the plagues the Lord sends to Egypt. If it's true that the Lord is all knowing, all powerful, and ever present, then we can look at moments of conflict and trial as prime opportunities to learn more about who He is and who we are.
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There were over 2,000 gods in the Egyptian pantheon. These ranged from Amun-Ra who was the god of sun and air, to Sopdu who was a god over a specific border and the forts on that border. In our episode this week we fast forward hundreds of years from end of Genesis and find the Israelites trapped in the land of these thousands of gods. The irony? It was in this place, surrounded by statues and symbols and sweating under the strain of servitude, that Israel would truly come to know their own god, the One God, or better said, the God is, actually, present everywhere and every time.
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Corrie Ten Boom survived the horrors of a WWII concentration camp. Years later she spoke widely of her experience of the power of forgiveness teaching, "Forgiveness is not an emotion. Forgiveness is an act of the will." After one such speaking event, one of her former camp guards recognized her, approached her, and stuck out his hand to shake hers. She recounted, "I, who had preached so often … the need to forgive, kept my hand at my side. And so … I breathed a silent prayer. Jesus, I cannot forgive him. Give me Your forgiveness. As I took his hand the most incredible thing happened. From my shoulder along my arm and through my hand a current seemed to pass from me to him, while into my heart sprang a love for this stranger that almost overwhelmed me. And so I discovered that it is not on our forgiveness any more than on our goodness that the world’s healing hinges, but on His."
This week we study Genesis 42-50 and one of the powerful stories of forgiveness in search of principles to guide our own efforts to forgive ourselves and others.
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Elder Holland once taught, "Every one of us has times when we need to know things will get better… For emotional health and spiritual stamina, everyone needs to be able to look forward to some respite, to something pleasant and renewing and hopeful, whether that blessing be near at hand or still some distance ahead… My declaration is that this is precisely what the gospel of Jesus Christ offers us." The story of Joseph of Egypt is exactly this: a story of good things to come despite difficult things we see. In fact, as we study this week we want to build on our study last week and learn how to not only let the Lord prevail, but let Him prosper us, our families, and those we love and serve.
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As with others before him, Jacob, son of Rebekah and Isaac, receives a new name from the Lord that indicates something the Lord desires or foresees he can become. Jacob's name change is an interesting one: from Jacob, which means "supplanter" or "one who grasps or clings", to Israel, which at least means, as President Nelson has taught us, "one with whom God prevails". This week we study Gen 28-33 and dig into the account, not just to see that letting God prevail is important, but to see exactly how to do it.
Show Notes:
BYU professor and artist Anthony Sweat wrote in his recent book, Repicturing the Restoration, about the [in]famous conflict between founding father John Adams and painter John Trumbull. Adams criticized Trumbull for painting the signing of the Declaration of Independence without depicting the arguments and debates that took place and without which, Adams said, Trumbull's picture was a fiction" under pretense of poetical or graphical licenses." Lin Manual Miranda, in his smash hit Hamilton originally proposed starting with a song called, "No John Trumbull."
Our study this week places us right in the middle of one of many complicated stories of the Bible. Far from trying to simplify or streamline it, we want to sit with it this week and allow ourselves time to consider just how our own paths and experiences in life are a lot messier than we might like. In short, what you're about to read is "no John Trumbull."
Show Notes:
When once asked why Abraham was required by the Lord to offer up son Isaac as a sacrifice, Elder Hugh B. Brown answered, "Abraham needed to learn something about Abraham." Of course we know the Lord doesn't test or try us so He can learn something; which brings up an interesting question: what did Abraham have to learn? In this episode we look at one possible (and powerful) lesson to be drawn from this account: how to create holy places for ourselves and those we love.
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This week we begin our study of the patriarch Abraham, and that word "patriarch" is an interesting one. In Gen 17:5 the Lord changes Abraham's name from Abram meaning "God is the exalted father" to Abraham meaning "father of multitudes". The change is subtle but significant: Abraham is expected and blessed to experience what it means to care for and lead a family. And what do parents do? They bless, or as it says in D&C 41:1, they "delight to bless" their children. In this episode we look at the blessings our God gives to us and through us for our own benefit and the benefit of those we love.
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We all have memories as kids of trying to lie our way out of consequences. I remember scrambling through lies as a 10-year-old to try and prevent a grounding and, now as a parent, I can see my actions in almost a laughable light. However, we all have more recent and, thus, more painful memories of trying to cover our mistakes or escape their consequences as adults. This week we study two stories dealing with sin and consequence and both the wrong and right way to find protection and progress.
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I recently asked a class how they would finish the prompt, "In a perfect world…" The answers were fun: in a perfect world stickers would always peel off clean, in a perfect world ketchup squeezes out perfectly, in a perfect world certain unnecessary sequels are never made. After a good laugh, we began talking about what we would truly want to experience in a perfect world. As we started describing heaven on earth our desire to live in such a place increased, but there was an unspoken sigh of "someday" included in that desire. Well, what if someday was today? What if, instead of waiting for heaven, we could start building it now? What if Zion wasn't as far away as we have always thought?
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In C. S. Lewis's Screwtape letters where a fictional devil gives instruction to his apprentice on how to tempt humans, the devil counsels, "Let him do anything but act. No amount of piety in his imagination and affections will harm us if we can keep it out of his will… The more often he feels without action, the less he will be able ever to act, and, in the long run, thee less he will be able to feel." In this week's episode we begin studying the powerful record of Enoch in search of foundation first steps to walking with God.
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There's a story in John Bunyon's Pilgrim's Progress about a man who rakes muck and dirt. When an angel appears and offers him a celestial crown the man cannot give up what he has grown so accustomed to doing even for such a great reward. This week on The Scripture Study Project we study three stories of sacrifice and learn, not only why it's important, but what the Lord would have us sacrifice, how to do in a "respect" able way, and what results will come once we do.
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We're posting this episode, our study of Gen 1-2 and the accompanying chapters in the Pearl of Great Price, on January 1, 2022. It's a new year and, at least for me, new years bring a sense of possibility at what can (and what I want to) be created in the coming weeks and months. In this episode we study creation--how God does it, and how can we can do it to.
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Welcome to our fifth season of The Scripture Study Project. We are brimming with excitement to study the Old Testament with you, and this week we begin that study by diving into two great visions by two great prophets where they learn the answers to two great questions. Those questions, important for them, are critical for us as we navigate our way through this upcoming year and the new world we are all working to rebuild. Join us this week, and this year, as we discover powerful truths about the Lord, invest our own hearts and lives into our study, and connect with others as we learn together.
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In our final episode of 2021 we look through the feast of revelations at the end of the Doctrine & Covenants and look, not at what was revealed, but at how it was revealed and how we can receive more ourselves. Cap off a great year of study with us and head into the holidays with a personal study challenge.
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Joseph and Hyrum Smith were martyred. The Saints had to leave Nauvoo. Pioneers trekked and toiled to find a home. So many difficult experiences packed into such a short window of time, not unlike our own last few years. When we face those kinds of sanctifying experiences, what are we to do? In this episode we study some principles that lead us through purifying trials.
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In this, OUR 200th EPISODE, we add an "appendix" to the past four years. As we study this week we highlight some ideas that we have either learned over in the course of this podcast or else that have driven us to make it this far.
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With a block of scripture as doctrinally dense as our study this week we need some perspective in order navigate what can be some of the trickiest waters in the D&C. Join us this episode as we define doctrine and prepare our hearts to tackle some of the heaviest topics to date.
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Despite running for his life, being forced into hiding, and being once again separated from friends and family, Joseph Smith wrote of a "voice of gladness" he heard in the gospel he believed in. In this episode we figure out how to have that kind of optimistic, "glad" perspective of ourselves and others.
Show Notes:
Anthony Sweat, "The Rough Stone," painting.
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When the Saints got to Nauvoo it was a mosquito-infested swamp. Through the Lord's grace and their hard work they were able to transform it into something "beautiful". Just like they had with Zion. Just like they would with Salt Lake City. Just like the Lord did with the Prophet Joseph Smith himself. Just like the Lord does with us. Study with us in this episode to ask yourself how to work with the Lord to make something beautiful.
Show Notes:
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Elder Holland (and others) have called Liberty Jail a "prison-temple" for Joseph Smith and others that were with him. For over four months they suffered; but they also changed and became something new. In this episode we take a look at our own prison-temple experiences, figure out how to endure them, and identify what we are supposed to learn from them.
Show Notes:
Jeffrey R. Holland, "Lessons from Liberty Jail," BYU Devotional, September 2008.
Joseph Smith, "Letter to the Church and Edward Partridge," March 20, 1839.
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The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints combines both the teachings, example, ministry, and leadership of a divine being with everyday, imperfect, mistake-laden, and very mortal beings. Both the God and the saint make up the Church. In this episode we falling and arising and reframe our own relationship with our mortality so we can more fully participate in the Lord's plan for our growth.
Show Notes:
Eugene England, "Whey the Church is as True as the Gospel"
Camille Johnson, "Invite Christ to Author Your Story," October 2021
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Music: “Do Not Go Gentle” by Josh Woodward
It might an obvious observation, but our lives' stresses and strains are often caused, not by world-ending sins, but by small but pervasive mistakes. Even the prophet Joseph Smith was called out for his "follies". In this episode we wrestle with the anatomy of our own "follies" in pursuit of better self-understanding and, possibly, a future of fewer mistakes.
Show Notes:
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Music: “Do Not Go Gentle” by Josh Woodward
We all want our prayers to be "accepted" just like those early Saints who joined with the prophet in prayer in and for the Kirtland Temple. We want to be heard and to hear God ourselves. In this episode we take a unique look at the dedicatory prayer in search of examples of prayer. Study along and see what ideas come to you to help you as you pray to God.
Show Notes:
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Music: “Do Not Go Gentle” by Josh Woodward
What is "special" about our general Church priesthood leaders? In this episode we study from Section 107 just what prophets, apostles, seventies, and other are and, by implication (or by statement), what they are not. As we better understand the calling of our leaders we can better understand our responsibility to "uphold" them with our confidence and faith.
Show Notes:
Russell M. Nelson, "Perfection Pending," October 1995.
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We titled this episode (as we do each one) with a word from the scripture block, and this one is ironic because, even though the Lord promises victory (DC 103:36) these sections are all about failure. We know what that feels like: to feel assured of a certain outcome, maybe even a prophesied or prompted one, only to have it not occur. In this study we dive into failure and find out just why it's allowed to happen and why it maybe isn't as prominent as we think.
Show Notes:
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Over the past few months and, more acutely, weeks, there has been an increase in contentious feelings among us as people and, unfortunately, between us a disciples of Christ. In this episode we study the Lord's directions to early members of the Restored Church in search of guidance for how we should respond to affliction and conflict ourselves. In short: we seek to proclaim peace in a world at war.
Show Notes:
Jeffrey R. Holland, "Not as the World Giveth," April 2021.
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Music: “Do Not Go Gentle” by Josh Woodward
After the past year and then some we've all had, we need to devote some time and effort to [re]building our lives. In this episode we dive into the Lord's revelations on buildings and ponder our own place in the Lord's restoration of us to His promises and blessings
Show Notes:
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Music: “Do Not Go Gentle” by Josh Woodward
God is full of grace, truth, light, power, and joy. Jesus received the fulness as he grew from grace to grace. And the great imperative for us is to grow grow and receive that same fulness. Study with us in this episode as we dig into a deep truth with deep meaning.
Show Notes:
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The Word of Wisdom is not just a suggestion, it is not just about physical health, and it is not just a list of do's and don'ts. In this episode break out of the traditional study of Doctrine & Covenants 89 and find principles for spiritual health that help you to receive the incredible blessings the Lord promises to those who "keep and do these sayings".
Show Notes:
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How can I foster peace in my home/ward/community/class/etc.? This question, universally appealing, is at the heart of our study this week. In the midst conflict within the leadership of the early Restored Church, the prophet Joseph Smith received what he deemed an "olive leaf" crammed with principles of peace applicable to all. Study with us this week as we discover peace, invest our personal situations into that study, and connect to God's truth with a practical approach to acquiring light and truth.
Show Notes:
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Division and divisiveness seem to be quite in vogue in recent years, a problem which the Lord certainly foresaw. In Doctrine & Covenants 85-87 early Church members were dealing with multiple kinds of division: religious, spiritual, and political. Join us in this episode as we study those different divisions and seek for what we can do about it.
Show Notes:
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What is the Priesthood, exactly? Who has it? What does it do? The questions (and more) occupy our focus this episode as begin our study of one of the pinnacle revelations in the Doctrine & Covenants. Discover with us the expansiveness of God's power, invest you mind and heart into your study by pondering how you can draw that power into your own life, and connect to God through greater diligence.
Show Notes:
Russel M. Nelson, "Drawing the Power of Jesus Christ into our Lives," April 2017.
Barbara Morgan Gardner, "Connecting Daughters of God with His Priesthood Power," Ensign, March 2019.
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The word "covenant" is one of the more oft-used words in the Church. However, in our traditional attempts to scribe it we may diminish the power of the principle and, thus, diminish our own ability to be more powerfully connected to God. In this episode we discover an expanded definition of covenants and ponder how we can better covenant with God and others.
Show Notes:
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If you were asked to guess which kingdom of glory you will go to, what would you say? How confident would you be in your answer? In this episode we study "The Vision" in D&C 76 in search of truths about God's character and expansive power to save that help us feel more confident in salvation and, thus, live with more peace and joy.
Show Notes:
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Often, as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ, it can be difficult to delineate between what is eternal and unchanging and what is more temporary and changeable. Whether it's statements in the scriptures or by Church leaders, particular policies or practices, or even truths and teachings, identifying what is permanent and what is not can be essentially important. In this episode we approach that very task as we study instructions the Lord gave to early Church members.
Show Notes:
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"Abundance" is certainly a buzz word in common parlance today, but the idea of abundance, divine abundance, originates from God. This week we study dive into a study of that divine abundance, how it works, and what we can do to qualify ourselves and others for it.
Show Notes:
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When the Prophet dictated the prophetic plea that the "kingdom of God go forth, that the kingdom of heaven may come" it was revealed, not just a future event, but a present one as well. We can and should belong to and benefit from the kingdom of God on earth, now. In this episode we discover how, invest in our relationships with others, and are challenged to extend forgiveness.
Show Notes:
Neal A. Maxwell, "A Brother Offended," April 1982.
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Music: “Do Not Go Gentle” by Josh Woodward
"For better or worse, in sickness and health..." do those words describe your commitment to the Lord? This week we study, not just faith, but faithfulness and as we discover a fresh perspective, invest our mind and heart, and connect to God.
Show Notes:
Neal A. Maxwell, "Endure it Well," April 1990
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Do you like spinning plates? No, neither do we. In this episode we study the things that don't matter to the Lord and, by implication, the things that do matter to Him. As we learn together you might ask yourself the question, "What matters to the Lord in my life right now?"
Show Notes:
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Music: “Do Not Go Gentle” by Josh Woodward
"Welcome to Zion" said no sign nor person when the early Saints entered Missouri. Instead, they found only a few homes and stores, a somewhat irreligious society, and a situation that prompted at least some degree of disappointment. Finding Zion turned out to be the easy part: building Zion that hard. So too it is with us: knowing what we want our lives to look like--what kind of "Zion" we want--is simple; building that Zion takes work and effort. In this episode we study some of the not-so-easy/not-so-pretty side of growth and change to help us conscientiously roll up our figurative sleeves and go to work.
Show Notes:
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Where is Zion? This is the question that drove early members of the Church to seek for revelation in 1831, that motivated them to continue their sojourn across the country, and catalyzed their conversion to and application of restored truths. It is also a question that can similarly motivate us. In this episode we look at lessons learned about Zion before we get to Zion. What do we need to know, feel, do, or become before we can fully inherit the promised land?
Show Notes:
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Joseph Smith once wrote that all of us "must have the discerning of spirits" if we are to avoid deception and progress in the Kingdom of God. As we seek to follow President Nelson's challenge to "grow into the spirit of revelation", being able to discern the voice of the Spirit is important and difficult. In this episode we study key revelations given to early Church members on they way to both improving our ability to discern as well as solidifying our own certainty of what really is "of God" and what is not.
Show Notes:
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Perhaps the most-asked question in the whole Church is, "How do I recognize when the Spirit is speaking to me?" Early members of the Church had the same question and, as we study sections 46-48 this week, wee study the Lord's revelation of true spiritual manifestations or "gifts" He gives to indicate when the Spirit is present. Ask yourself: what "gifts" have I seen or received that evidence God's presence?
Show Notes:
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As Church members started a new life in a new place they had to encounter new and increasing problems. One of those--attacks on their faith from other inhabitants of Kirtland, printed in the newspaper, and spreading almost as quick as the gospel itself--caused many Church members to struggle with their newfound faith. Today, we are no strangers to challenges and criticism, but retaining and embracing our own faith is often no less difficult. Study with us this week as we study what we can know, feel, do, and become to better enable us to embrace our faith in the face of challenge.
Show Notes:
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Am I obeying the Lord's Laws? That's the question at the heart of our study this week. On the way we make our own (very presumptuous and super unofficial) list of ten commandments from the different laws and instructions the Lord gives to the early saints who have just arrived in Kirtland. We list some of the commands that most resonated with us and invite you to study along and make your own list.
Show Notes:
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"All things are present before me," says the Lord to the early saints. That phrase is mind-blowing especially when we start to consider its implications. However, for us, all things are not present; we have a past that might weigh on us and a future that might worry us. In this episode we study the past, the present, and the future as we ask ourselves what we should put (and keep) in our past, prioritize in our present, and focus on in our future.
Show Notes:
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We all have a voice and, it's evident from the Doctrine & Covenants, that the Lord expects us to use that voice to share the gospel. But how? and where? and why? This week learn from the Lord's instructions to early servants He sends to proclaim the gospel as we examine our own efforts to gather Israel. What is your voice? Study with us this week and begin to find out!
Show Notes:
Henry B. Eyring, "A Child and Disciple," April 2003.Visit our website scripturestudyproject.com or connect to us on Instagram or Facebook
For this week we replay an episode that originally aired two years ago:
On Sunday he entered Jerusalem, on Monday he cleansed the temple, Tuesday and Wednesday he taught and Thursday through Sunday he suffered, died, and resurrected. What do each of these events symbolize in our relationship with Christ. Study this episode with us today in preparation of a daily worship of the Savior this Passion Week.
Show Notes
When the topic of the Second Coming of Christ comes up, if we're honest, there also come accompanying feelings of anxiety, worry, and even fear. However, when early Church members discussed the topic it filled them with excitement, hope, and motivation to gather themselves and others to Him. In this episode we study a foundational revelation to the early Church which can help us both shift our emotions surrounding the coming of Christ and our desire to be (and help others be) more closely gathered to Him.
Show Notes:
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Joseph was corrected by an angel as he sought to procure wine for the sacrament. Hiram Page was corrected as he sought to receive revelation. Oliver Cowdery was corrected as he sought to serve as a Church leader. Correction, it seems, was vital to the growth of the newly-restored Church. As we seek to grow ourselves we might expect (and hopefully accept) correction from the Lord as well. In this episode we ask the question: What correction(s) would the Lord give me? Study with us as we search for principles to help us figure out where, when, and how those corrections might come.
Show Notes:
Henry B. Eyring, "Continuing Revelation," October 2014.
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Music: “Do Not Go Gentle” by Josh Woodward
We speak often of our "callings" in the Church; however, in the early days of the Restoration women and men weren't called to formally-named assignments in their wards, they were called to fulfill powerful and foundational purposes in the Kingdom of God. Emma Smith, the Knight family, the Smith brothers, and others were called by God to do great things. This week we learn from these callings as we ask ourselves what the calling is that God has for each of us.
Show Notes:
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The Lord organizes chaos. He did it at the creation of the world. He did it during His mortal ministry in organizing a Church. He did it in the early 1800's when He restored His Church to the earth. And He can do it this year for each of us after the chaos that was 2020. In this episode we study truths about the organization of the Restored Church that can guide our own efforts to seek divine help in bringing more order to our lives. The question is, "What would the Lord have me organize or establish in my life?"
Show Notes:
Mari Kondo, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up
Brooke Snow, Living in Your True Identity
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We've all heard more than a few talks, lessons, and sermons on repentance. We know it's important, and we know that we should do it. But sometimes we don't actually know what it is and, more importantly, how to do it. In this episode we study the Lord's directions to early Church members and wrestle them some practical principles that we can actually do something with. The question this week for us as we study can be, "What is the Lord wants me to change?"
Show Notes:
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The Lord called many in the early Restored Church to obtain and share a "witness" of the unfolding work. Today, we are likewise called to witness; however, our testimonies can sometimes be overlaid and overcomplicated with tradition, culture, trite phrases, or misunderstandings. In this episode we study Doctrine & Covenants 14-17 in search of clear truths about witnessing as we invite you to ponder your own witness and where the Lord would have you share it.
Show Notes:
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "What is Truth?" BYU Devotional, July 2013.
James E. Faust, "A New Aristocracy," October 1974.
Boyd K. Packer, "Inspiring Music--Worthy Thoughts," October 1973.
Lizzy Jensen (click link in bio to access tools)
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To his "fellow servants" Joseph and Oliver the angel John, acting under direction from the Lord, gave power to further the work of the Lord. Similarly today, the Lord gives His "fellow servants"--both women and men--power to accomplish the work He calls them to do. In our study this week we ask the question: what is the power the Lord has given me, and what does He expect me to do with it. In this episode we get a bit personal and focus on the truths we would help our own young daughter understand as she seeks for her own answers to these important questions.
Show Notes:
Linda K. Burton, "Priesthood Power--Available to All," Ensign, June 2014.
Dallin H. Oaks, "The Keys and Authority of the Priesthood," April 2014.
The Priesthood Restored: A Joseph Smith Papers Podcast.
Victor L. Brown, "The Vision of the Aaronic Priesthood," October 1975.
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"What do I want?" This seemingly simple question drives our study this week. Joseph, Martin, Oliver, Hyrum, and many others who wanted to be a part of the unfolding restoration were directly quickly to examine their hearts--their wants and desires--and to align them with the Lord's. We know from personal experience that this process is not easy. In this episode we dive into the study and the work of changing our own hearts.
Show Notes:
Dallin H. Oaks, "Desire," April 2011.
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"What is the Lord revealing to me?" That's the question at the center of our study this week. There is a long prophetic priority placed on each of us developing our ability to receive and recognize what the Lord wants us to know, feel, do, and become. In this episode we share some of those tools and how they work, practically, in our daily life.
Show Notes:
N. Eldon Tanner, "Warnings from Outer Space," October 1972.
Thomas S. Monson, "Faith of a Child," October 1975.
Julie B. Beck, “And upon the Handmaids in Those Days Will I Pour Out My Spirit," April 2010.
Russel M. Nelson, "Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives," April 2018.
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Being called to join the work of the Lord can be an incredible experience; however, it also brings with it a natural need for refinement. Joseph Smith, Father Smith, Martin Harris, and so many others of us who have been called to the work need the Lord's truth and testing in order to successfully "embark" in His service. On the podcast this week we study sections 3-5 and ask ourselves the important (but difficult) questions: What is frustrating me from fulfilling the work God has given me? And what can I do to better qualify for the Lord's power as I labor with Him?
Show Notes:
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "God Will Do Something Unimaginable," October 2020.
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When Moroni visits Joseph Smith one of the primary messages he delivers (repeatedly) is that, as Joseph explained, "God had work for me to do". That pattern--God giving His children a work to do--extends both backwards and forwards through history. In this episode we ask ourselves the question, "What is the work that God has for me to do?" and study together just what that work will (and won't) entail.
Show Notes:
Doctrine & Covenants study resources
Spencer W. Kimball, "What Do We Hear?" April 1974
Marion G. Romney, "Church Welfare--Some Fundamentals," October 1973
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Joseph Smith had a swirl of questions in his mind and heart as he headed into the woods in 1820. When he came out of those woods he declared convincedly, "I have learned for myself." What happened between those questions and that answer is one of the most amazing and instructive stories ever recorded in religious history.
Just a few days into a brand new year we find ourselves, much like Joseph, asking serious questions and looking to heaven for serious answers. This week we look at Joseph's experience and ask ourselves, "What will I do to learn God's truth for myself?"
Show Notes:
Doctrine & Covenants study resources
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Music: “Do Not Go Gentle” by Josh Woodward
In many ways the world in 1831 looked very similar to the world in 2021. A cholera epidemic that had been spreading in other countries finally hit the United States. The country was recovering from an intense season of political strife and social unrest. An economic depression brought many individuals and families to their knees in the late 1830s. Many people had begun and would continue to advocate for significant social changes that would spawn a civil war and foreshadow multiple world wars. Certainly much of this and more was what the Lord meant when He stated that He knew of the "calamities" that would be coming.
After our very own year of calamity, also certainly foreknown by the Lord, we may find ourselves feeling very much like our early Church sisters and brothers--filled with questions, reeling from problems, and wrestling to find faith and truth in trying times. Into all of this the Lord spoke from heaven, gave instructions, and began an ongoing period of restoration that brought light and life to the world.
As we begin our study of the Doctrine & Covenants this year we desperately desire the Lord continue that great work of restoration in our own lives. He commands all who read this book to "hearken" to His voice. The question for each of us, then, is this: what do I want to hear from the Lord as I study this year?
Show Notes:
Doctrine & Covenants study resources
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A quick message from us to assure you we're still here (just enjoying the holidays), to tease some exciting changes coming for the podcast (based on your feedback), to gush our excitement for our study of the Doctrine and Covenants (we've been waiting), and to share a brief but powerful New Year's message that seems more fitting now than ever before.
Show Notes:
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In his final words to his modern readers Moroni "exhorts" us to "come unto Christ, and be perfected in him". The word "perfect" in scriptures, especially when applied to mortals, rarely means to be faultless; rather, it means to become fully finished, completed, or matured. In our final episode of the Book of Mormon, using Moroni's final words to us, and reflecting on the year soon-to-be behind us, we study with you just how we can make it through to be or become "perfected in Christ".
Show Notes:
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Moroni, despite being faced with the bleakest of worlds focused his final words on the faith, hope, and charity that comes from and directs us to the Lord Jesus Christ. As we navigate our own final days of a historic year we can join him in his focus and, if done right, can benefit from the same results. Study with us this week as we seek to "lay hold on every good thing" that comes from Christ.
Show Notes:
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In a world "without order" Moroni writes repeatedly about ordainings and ordinances which, he explains, "keep them in the right way" and help his readers in "relying alone upon the merits of Christ" (Moroni 6:4). In some of the most-speed-read chapters of the Book of Mormon Moroni takes up precious space to teach the order that can come to us as we follow the instructions the Lord gives for His Church. Study along with us this week to bring into / increase / bring back order to your life and connection with God!
Show Notes:
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Music: "Something Elated" by Broke For Free
Living in the latter days has never been more wrought with difficulties: from a pandemic to civil and political unrest to natural disasters and other causes of worldwide depression. It may seem like we are, as Mormon once described, "a vessel . . . tossed about upon the waves, without sail or anchor, or without anything wherewith to steer her" (Mormon 5:18). However, our study this week can provide was Moroni described as "an anchor to the souls of men [and women], which would make them sure and steadfast" (Ether 12:4). Study with is this week as we search for greater faith, increased hope, and some grounding truths in our turbulent lives.
Show Notes:
President Nelson's Message of Healing and Hope
The Story Behind the Global Prayer of Gratitude
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Music: "Something Elated" by Broke For Free
In the briefly-told, repeatedly-cycling story of the Jaredites' righteousness and wickedness it was when they "remembered the great things that the Lord had done for [their] fathers in bringing them across the great deep" that the people find peace and joy. In this episode we study three specific things the Lord did for this ancient people in their "great deep" that He can and will do for a modern people in our own "great deep". A fitting follow-up to last week's episode!
Show Notes:
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President Nelson prophesied two years ago, "in coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost. My beloved brothers and sisters, I plead with you to increase your spiritual capacity to receive revelation." Looking at 2020 it may seem like that at least one of those "coming days" is here. In this episode we study the story of Jared and his brother and their quest for personal revelation and focus on guiding truths that can help us, as President Nelson said, "grow into the principle of revelation".
Show Notes:
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It would have been understandable for Mormon or Moroni to focus on the negative as they witnessed the destruction of their people--but they didn't. "I will show unto you a God of miracles," said Moroni in full knowledge that we would one day read his words and his description of those miracles. Similarly, it would be understandable if we wanted to focus on the negative as we witness the hardships our own people and plant face--but we shouldn't. Study with us this episode as we learn about and look for the Lord's miracles in the scriptures and in our own lives!
Show Notes:
Boyd K. Packer, "The Balm of Gilead," General Conference, Otober 1977.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "God Will Do Something Unimaginable," General Conference, October 2020.
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As Mormon describes the sad world that he lives in and the decay of his people he knows both that the record he keeps will not his people. However, he does know that the record can and will save future people--including us! The Nephites fall, but from their tragic fall, Mormon hopes that we will rise. Study with us this week as we search for lessons learned from a fallen people that can raise our own modern lives and world.
Show Notes:
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Music: "Something Elated" by Broke For Free
How would you respond if you were there in 3 Nephi and Jesus asked you, as one of his disciples, "What is that ye desire of me, after that I am gone to the Father?" If the resurrected Christ gave you permission to ask Him for something, what would it be? In this episode we share our own desires and invite you to consider yours as you study along.
Show Notes:
Quentin L. Cook, "Hearts Knit in Righteousness and Unity," General Conference, October 2020.
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Music: "Something Elated" by Broke For Free
What exactly does it mean to be "covenant Israel"? And what does it mean to really "let God prevail" in our own lives? These and other questions captivated us this week as we studied the Savior's teachings to the Nephites and we hope will captivate you as well!
Show Notes:
Russel M. Nelson, "Let God Prevail," General Conference, October 2020.
Carlos A. Gadoy, "I Believe in Angels," General Conference, October 2020.
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With the constant canceling or postponing of plans, activities, and events, we may find ourselves more frequently with extra time on our hands and wonder what we should do. In this episode we study what Jesus does with the extra time He takes with the Nephites when obliged their secret request that He "tarry a little longer with them." Want to know what to do with a bit of extra time and space in your life? Listen in this week and find out!
Show Notes:
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Jesus' arrival among the Nephites, much like His ministry in Judea, signified the introduction of "new things" in addition to or replacement of "old things". He taught them new laws, gave them new commandments, and commanded them to live as new creatures. In this episode we study just what "new things" we could learn and learn to live from Jesus' teachings that could help us take advantage of this time to, ourselves, become something new!
Show Notes:
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As the Book of Mormon peoples experienced the signs of the Savior's death, including days of darkness, they heard, amidst all the commotion, a voice inviting them to repent and return to the Lord. As they opened their ears and looked towards the voice they understood the voice and met Jesus Christ Himself. With all of the commotion going on in our world today it might be more important (and maybe more difficult) to hear Him than ever before. But if we did, what would we hear? What would we see?
Show Notes:
Russell M. Nelson, "Hear Him," April 2020.
See the apostles share how they #HearHim on the Church's YouTube Page.
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In a block of chapters that seem filled to the brim with destruction, decay, and difficulties it can be easy to focus on the negative. However, the Lord Himself commands, "Lift up your head and be of good cheer."
In a block of history (today) that seems filled to the brim with destruction, decay, and difficulties it can be easy to focus on the negative. However, the message given to those Nephites long ago still rings true for us: "Life up your heads and be of good cheer!"
Study with us this episode to find those truths that can help us do just that!
Show Notes:
Neil L. Andersen, "Spiritually Defining Memories," General Conference, April 2020.
L. Whitney Clayton, "Choose to Believe," General Conference, April 2015.
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Music: "Something Elated" by Broke For Free
Surprise! The Nephites are bad; the Lamanites are good; a Lamanite is a prophet and is preaching to Nephites! In this episode we pull from this surprising story some surprising, non-traditional reasons why we should listen to the men and women on the walls in our city.
Show Notes:
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The pride cycle is well known and oft-discussed but what we never talk about is how to stop it. Like a bike tire rolling there seems to be something almost inevitable about pride. Well, study with us this week as we stop the pride cycle by giving it a flat tire and disrupting pride in our own lives.
Show Notes:
See Jody Moore's great podcast here!
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In this episode we meet some of the most destructive villains in the Book of Mormon and it's not the leaders of the armies or bands of robbers. What do you do against an enemy who is focused on your complete destruction? Find out as we study together.
Show Notes:
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Last episode we learned how to wage and win your own, individual battles against the adversary. In this episode we peer between the lines to see how to win the even-more-serious family battles. In short, what did the Book of Mormon's most incredible youth group learned from perhaps the Book's most incredible parents?
Show Notes:
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Have you ever felt like life, your life, was a war? Ever felt like you were fighting just to keep your faith against an enemy who seems bent set on destroying it? In this episode we study the strategies and tactics in the war chapters of the Book of Mormon that will help us all fight harder, be braver, and win more individual battles.
Show Notes:
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Corianton, one of Alma's sons, committed serious sins while serving a mission; however, he is also listed by Mormon as one of the penultimate heroes of the Book of Mormon. Similarly, we all make many and sometimes large mistakes and are encouraged, even commanded, by our God to change from and grow past our flaws. In this episode we search for what truths we need to know in order to make those changes or to help others we love change.
Show Notes:
Jeffrey R. Holland, "Where Justice, Love, and Mercy Meet," General Conference, April 2015.
Jeffrey R. Holland, "For Times of Trouble," BYU Devotional, March 1980.
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Of all the sermons Alma gave in his long and storied ministry, his writings to his sons had to be his most passionate and personal. So it's no wonder that these chapters illustrate better than almost anywhere else both the incredible pain and joy of repentance from sin and conversion to Christ. In this episode we invite our guest, Dan McKinley to walk us through what he sees as some of the most essential truths that can powerfully connect us to God and help us actually change our lives!
Show Notes:
Richard G. Scott, "Peace of Conscience and Peace of Mind," General Conference, October 2004.
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What do you do if you can't worship the way you always have? Where do you go if you've been cast out of a social group? Who do you turn to when you're faith struggles and your heart aches? All of these questions (and more) can be answered with a deep study of Alma and Amulek's teachings to the Zoramites. Study along with us this week as we wrestle with worship and fight for faith in pursuit of a stronger and more personal relationship with Christ.
Show Notes:
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On the heels of one of the greatest conversion stories in the Book of Mormon the Alma and his missionary companions encounter anti-Christs who attack faith, dissuade from obedience, and preach against God. In a world of relentless attacks on faith and obedience, it's not too difficult to see the relation. Study with us this week as we seek to expose the anti-Christ agenda and learn how to respond in our own wrestles with doubt and faith.
Show Notes:
Ezra Taft Benson, "The Book of Mormon is the Word of God," General Conference, April 1975.
M. Russell Ballard, "An Evening with M. Russell Ballard," CES Broadcast, February 2016.
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In our last episode we read about the sons of Mosiah becoming instruments in God's hand to cause incredible change; in this episode we study what happens when being an instrument brings unexpected or undesired hardships. Special guest Ashley Laneri joins us to share scriptural and personal lessons learned about battling discontent and striving for faithful perseverance.
Show Notes:
David A. Bednar, "The Windows of Heaven," General Conference, October 2013.
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In a world filled with an increasing desire for change and growth we may often find ourselves asking just how we can effectively facilitate change in our personal, family, and community lives. Study with us this week as we read the story of the sons of Mosiah who found "great success" in their own missions as they became "instruments in the hand of God". How can you change the world? Study this week to find out!
Show Notes:
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As he sat in a jail in Ammonihah, imprisoned for preaching and horrified at witnessing one of the worst atrocities in the Book of Mormon, Alma cried out to God, "How long shall we suffer these great afflictions, O Lord? With so much pain and suffering in the world today we may feel to cry out with the same question. In this study we seek for some answers and solace to why God allows suffering and what we can learn about Him even as we try to endure.
Show Notes:
Richard G. Scott, "Finding Joy in Life," General Conference, April 1996.
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Music: "Something Elated" by Broke For Free
Join Zach and guest Garret Shields as they dive into some of the powerful sermons recorded in the Book of Mormon. In an attempt to reclaim his people and help them feel the reality and love of God, Alma paints vivid, poignant images for his listeners to picture as they ponder their relationship with God. What do you feel as you imagine what you read?
Show Notes:
Stephen E. Robinson, Believing Christ, 122-23.
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Music: "Something Elated" by Broke For Free
Today there is an intense battle over our identity as children of God and members of the Church. While one side tries to get us to withdraw from our identity and our relationship with God, the other side, God's side, seeks to help us retain or reclaim our identity. In this episode we study both sides in an effort to better understand ourselves and our divine personality.
Show Notes:
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "The Reflection in the Water," CES Devotional, 2009.
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Music: "Something Elated" by Broke For Free
Over the past episodes we've studied people getting into and out of bondage placed on them by others; in this episode we study what it takes to get us out of bondage we place on ourselves! As we start one of the most powerful stories in the Book of Mormon we discover fresh truths about repentance and redemption that could make this one of the most powerful stories in your life!
Show Notes:
Jeffrey R. Holland, "For Times of Trouble," BYU Devotional, 1980.
Russell M. Nelson, "We Can Do Better and Be Better," General Conference, April 2019.
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Music: "Something Elated" by Broke For Free
What covenants have we actually made with God, and how can those covenants help us in our personal and family lives? In this bonus episode, Krista interviews Maria Eckersley as they study Mosiah 18 filled with powerful insights for everyday life.
Show Notes:
FREE Online Lightkeepers Experience
CLICK to sign up for Maria’s Creative Teaching for Come Follow Me Course
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What do you do when you're having a bad day? Week? Month? When it seems like the very world around you is trying to get you to bow or bend or break? How can you "stand" or "walk" when all you want to do is sit or lie down? In this, the concluding episode of the whole Zeniff-Noah-Abinadi-Alma-Limhi story we study these questions and more and, ultimately, learn together about the God who can, will, and does deliver us from our bondage.
Show Notes:
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Who is the Lord? And who are you? These are the questions King Noah asked the prophet Abinadi who stood before him. In this episode we study the life-changing, timeline-altering story and sermon of Abinadi gave in answer to these questions. Study along and ask yourself what can you learn and feel about both the Lord and yourself that will draw the two of you closer together than ever before!
Show Notes:
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In some of the most action-packed, faith-promoting, and sometimes-confusing chapters of the Book of Mormon we dive into the question of how we get ourselves into "bondage" and how God gets us out! Study along for a brief overview of your study for the next three weeks, some compelling discussion from our episode two years ago, and an opportunity to learn, feel, and do something about your our situation.
Show Notes:
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Maybe you, like King Benjamin's audience, have had a spiritual experience that prompted in you a desire to change. But how do you actually do that? Does it matter? And why should you want to change in the first place? On this episode we study with guest Brandon Porter those very questions. Study along and (hopefully) feel your belief grow, your understanding deepen, your heart change, and take another step on the road to becoming someone new!
Show Notes:
Jeffrey R. Holland, "Teaching, Preaching, Healing," Ensign, June 2003.
Henry B. Eyring, "My Peace I Leave With You," General Conference, April 2017.
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With a worldwide pandemic and the companion efforts to stop it, reading about a people who were gathered in families, "being separate one from another", and who "remain[ed] in their tents" to hear the word of God seems very apropos. In this episode we begin to unlock the promise King Benjamin gives to his people in his masterful sermon that if they would hearken to his words and open their ears and hearts that "the mysteries of God may be unfolded to [their] view." Want to know what is going on and maybe even have a glimpse of what might be coming? King Benjamin and his people might just have some answers.
Show Notes:
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With a coming General Conference President Nelson designated as "different from any previous conference", followed by an Easter that we won't soon forget, in the midst of a world crisis that we are struggling to understand, we may feel a kinship with the young Joseph Smith who felt "great unease" about the world he lived in. In this episode we ask the question, "How can I get answers to my questions the way Joseph Smith, Enos, and so many others got answers to theirs?"
Show Notes:
Russell M. Nelson, "Closing Remarks," General Conference, October 2019.
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During all of the craziness going on today it's more important than ever that we understand just how God works in the world today. In this episode we invite guest Kaylen Nelson on to dive into the oft-forgotten books of Enos through Words off Mormon and glean from 300 years of Nephite history truths about how God works through and around His children that might help us make sense of the world we currently live in. Knowing that God has "a wise purpose" for what's going on today, we can turn to His word to learn that wisdom for ourselves and our families.
Show Notes:
Tad R. Callister, "God's Compelling Witness: The Book of Mormon," October 2017.
Book of Mormon 2018 episode on Enos
Study Help: Structure of the Book of Mormon
David A. Bednar, "An Evening with Elder Bednar," February 2020.
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In a world where things are being hourly, minutely shaken up around us we need something to strengthen and solidify us. In Jacob's writings he mentions often his own and his desire to help others receive unshakeable faith. In chapter 5 he quotes Zenos' allegory of the olive tree that, if likened to us, is a story of how God helps the trees of his vineyard grow, become strong (and unshakeable), and bear fruit of hope and peace. In chapter 7 Jacob's faith is tested by Sherem and, yet, remains unshakeable. So study with us this week as we learn how to solidify our faith in the face of uncertainty.
Show Notes:
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The German word "weltschmerz" describes a feeling of sadness at the sins of the world. Jacob described this same feeling when he said he felt great "anxiety" for the welfare of his people's souls. What, exactly, caused this pain for Jacob and what causes it for us? Study with us this week as we tackle some of the big sins Jacob sees in his world that seem all-too-real for modern readers.
Show Notes:
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Believe, Love, Do," October 2018.
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One of the most famous phrases from the scriptures about the scriptures comes from Nephi's challenge for his readers to "feast upon the words of Christ." However, understanding what that actually means and how to do it can be tricky at best and daunting at worst. In this episode we give three tried-and-tested principles for better feasting in your personal scripture study and, thus, allowing God to better "tell you all things what you should do."
Show Notes:
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Have you ever wondered why, of all He could have done, God chose to use "the words of a book" to accomplish so much of His "marvelous work" in the last days? Why the Book of Mormon? Why now? As we study this week we answer these global questions and, much more importantly, the personal questions of just what this long-prophesied book can do for you. Want a Book of Mormon study pick-me-up, than this episode may be for you!
Show Notes:
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Are You Sleeping Through the Restoration?" General Conference, April 2014
Gary E. Stevenson, "The Ongoing Restoration," BYU Devotional, August 2019.
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Music: "Something Elated" by Broke For Free
Have you ever struggled reading the Isaiah chapters? Nephi says that he "delights" in Isaiah's words because they persuade people to come closer to Christ. In this episode, we reverse the traditional feelings about Isaiah and begin to scratch the surface of what these incredible chapters can do for you!
Show Notes:
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To a Nephite crown who has just been forced out of their homes (again), Nephi's brother Jacob preaches the "great plan of our God" and the details the Lord's rescue of His people. If you are feeling homeless or lost, alone, or just in need of rescue then study with us this week as we uncover what our God does to find and save us!
Show Notes:
Connie Gouldin, "Seeking Rescue," Ensign, June 2015.
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This week we study Lehi's blessings to his sons with special guest Art Olivas of the wonderful EstudioEn15 podcast. As we examine what truths Nephi draws upon to strengthen him in dark times we look at truths that can do the same for us. What can we learn about or from the Lord that helps us when we may feel "encompassed about" with trials and temptations (2 Nephi 4:18) but want to feel "encircled about" with the Lord's love and righteousness (2 Nephi 1:15; 4:33).
Show Notes:
Follow along with Art's great Spanish podcast EstudioEn15 (search for it in your podcast app) or connect with him online at his website or via Instagram.
Ronald A. Rasband, "Jesus Christ is the Answer," Evening with a General Authority, February 2019.
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We know, based on the last few weeks of study in the Book of Mormon, that the Lord promises blessings for obedience to His commandments. This week we study just how the Lord leads us to those promised blessings. And, as with all other studies in the scriptures, the more we can recognize His actions in others' lives the more we see His hand in our own.
Show Notes:
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As Nephi, fresh from hearing his father's vision and revelation, seeks his own witness he is shown God's love both in the manifestation of Jesus Christ as in His extension of power and protection across generations of history. Study with us this week as we focus on that love and see for ourselves how God has been loving to us in our own personal lives and histories.
Show Notes:
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Music: "Something Elated" by Broke For Free
It's often tempting, as you watch others fade from faith or abandon their discipleship, to ask, "Why do I believe? Why do I stay?" In this episode, we welcome guests Zach and Katie Cowan of Study Daily as we study together the iconic vision of the Tree of Life in search of what we learn about the Lord that, like those in the vision, makes us want to come to the Lord and stay with Him.
Show Notes:
Check out Study Daily on Instagram or jump over to Amazon to purchase your own copy of their book: Study Daily the Book of Mormon.
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If someone were to ask you, "What happens in the first chapters of the Book of Mormon?" you'd be able to tell them: Lehi...Nephi...Laman and Lemuel...journey...wilderness...plates.... But what if you were asked, "What does the Lord do in the first few chapters?"
In this episode of our study of the Book of Mormon we put ourselves in the shoes of this early family and search for what the Lord does to preserve and protect us and our families and, specifically, how He talks to us to guide us to His promised land.
Show Notes:
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In the first episode of season 3 we provide the thesis statement of The Scripture Study Project (where we've come from, why we do what we do, and what's coming up this season) as well as a thesis statement for The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ and a proposal for a fresh and faithful study of this great book this year. Listen in, follow along, and dive into your study of the Book of Mormon like never before!
Show Notes:
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In these final chapters of John's Revelation he describes, in detail, the ongoing war between the Lamb of God and the Dragon of the adversary. It's fitting that in our last study of the New Testament we get a vision into our past and our future all intended to give us hope and help in that exact conflict. The outcome of the war is assured; study with us this episode in search of truths that can make our personal battles just as sure.
Show Notes:
Check out our new website: scripturestudyproject.com and learn more about our new Book of Mormon Study Record. Find us also on Instagram or Facebook
Music: Blue Dot Sessions, "Weathervane," Creative Commons.
Merry Christmas from The Scripture Study Project. In this brief but special episode we share our Christmas card with our wonderful listeners. In this year's episode we ask how did the very first Christmas change the very first Christians? How did Jesus change Mary? How did Jesus change Joseph? And how can Jesus change you this holiday season?
Show Notes:
Check out our new website: scripturestudyproject.com and learn more about our new Book of Mormon Study Record. Find us also on Instagram or Facebook
Read Krist's article on Mary here.
This week we dive into the Revelation of John and, right off the bat, provide you with three keys that help take this often-daunting book and turn it into something you're going to love! Study a long as we take this record of some else's revelation and use it to spark our own revelations from and relationships with Jesus Christ.
Show Notes:
Check out our new website: scripturestudyproject.com and learn more about our new Book of Mormon Study Record. Find us also on Instagram or Facebook
A great article from this month's Ensight on the Book of Revelation: Nicholas J. Fredrick, "The Book of Revelation," Ensight, December 2019.
There is sometimes occassion for even the most devout desible or the most believing Saint to ask themselves, "Jesus, are you really there?" This question may have been on the minds of some of the earliest readers of the apostle John's epistles which would explain why he begins his writings with the certainty of his own witness followed by some of the richest descriptions of Jesus found in scripture. Study with us this week as we learn what John has to say that might help us feel closer to Jesus and become more assured that He is, in deed, really there.
Show Notes:
Check out our new website: scripturestudyproject.com and learn more about our new Book of Mormon Study Record. Find us also on Instagram or Facebook
Morgan Jones Instagram and the All In Podcast
Webster's definition of endure is "to continue in the same state." However, that's the exact opposite of what Peter counseled early saints to do as they faced persecution and battled personal struggles. In this episode we study what it really means to endure, how to do it ourselves, and why its so important. Welcome to the 100th episode of The Scripture Study Project!
Show Notes:
Check out our new website: scripturestudyproject.com and learn more about our new Book of Mormon Study Record. Find us also on Instagram or Facebook
When we read this in James: "Be ye doers of the word and not hearers only," we can't help but analyze ourselves. When it comes to studying the gospel, do seek to learn, really learn from the Lord? In this episode, we both study the doctrine of doing as well as practice a scripture study that has us asking what God wants us to learn, and also feel, do, and become.
Show Notes:
Check out our new website: scripturestudyproject.com and learn more about our new Book of Mormon Study Record. Find us also on Instagram or Facebook
In a world that seems to be constantly at war with our faith, and with persistent temptations to give up, pull back, or draw away, the Epistle to the Hebrews challenges us to remember our great "high priest of good things to come" (Hebrews 9:11) and to "draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith" (10:22). How do we do that? Study with us this week as we learn together how to strengthen faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Show Notes:
Jeffrey R. Holland, "A High Priest of Good Things to Come," General Conference, October 1999.
Music: Blue Dot Sessions, "Weathervane," Creative Commons.
Check us out on Instagram or Facebook for more information about our new study resource: The Book of Mormon Study Record!
To a people who felt their faith slipping and their hearts hardening the author of the Epistle to the Hebrews taught both why they should retain their devotion to Christ and how they could actually strengthen their faith. In this first of our two part study of Hebrews we start a study of everything about Jesus Christ that helps us "come boldly to the throne" of God and which increases our confidence before him.
Show Notes:
Blue Dot Sessions, "Weathervane," Creative Commons.
Check us out on Instagram or Facebook for more information about our new study resources: The Book of Mormon Study Record
What happens when you feel yourself or someone you love swerving away from the covenant path? That's the question that Paul addresses with a few specific individuals (Timothy and Titus) from this week's study. Study along as we discuss the difference between doctrine and policy and how we can navigate a world that seems to be constantly changing while drawing closer to a God who is unchageable.
Show Notes:
Russell M. Nelson, "The Love and Laws of God," BYU Devotional
Thomas S. Monson, "Opening Remarks," Worldwide Leadership Training
The Thessalonian saints spent their Christian living in world filled with persecution and pain and, thus, anticipated with longing the promised blessings of the Second Coming of Christ and the accompanying salvation from pain. However, Paul writes to inform them that those promised blessings are yet a ways off for them. So what do you do when the future you're waiting for isn't here yet? What do you do when you're tired of doing what's right and waiting for the reward? How can you be "not weary in well doing" when you feel you've been doing it so long? Study with us this week to learn answers to these and other questions.
Show Notes:
Our life, like Paul's, is often filled with bad news and good news that are intertwined. From prison (bad news) Paul writes a letter to the Philippians about his rejoicing (good news) in the gospel of Christ. Similarly, we must learn how to face our own prisons and problems (bad news) and see through them to the promises and perfection (good news) that Jesus Christ offers.
Show Notes:
Have you ever felt like your faith was under attack? Like your membership was being bombarded by criticism? Like you were in war against something or someone you can't see but who is intent on wrestling away from you the very truths that provide you hope in life? Well...you are! At least, that's how Paul describes what the Ephesians are going through. Study with us this week as we learn from Paul how to really fight against that unseen wickedness, put on the whole armor of God, and stand strong in our faith in Christ.
Show Notes:
Kim B. Clark, "Encircled About by Fire," S&I Broadcast, August 2015.
If you've ever felt pulled in two different directions, commanded to walk a covenant path by one voice and tugged to walk in other directions by so many other voices, than you can empathize with the Galatians. This week we study Paul's words to those who are pulled in different directions and learn, from him and from our own personal confirmations, why we should "stand fast" in the faith of Jesus Christ.
Show Notes:
Bruce R. McConkie, "Our Relationship with the Lord," BYU Address, 1982.
Paul says that he has a "thorn in the flesh", some weakness that persistently bothers him and forces him to admit humility and reliance on God. That feeling of weakness is, of course, not foreign to us as we look at ourselves nor as we look at those around us. So why does God allow us to have weakness and why does he allow those around us, maybe especially those who lead us, to have weakness too. Study along this week to learn from Paul what do with your and others' thorns.
Show Notes:
Having a bad day? A bad week? A bad year? In this episode we dive into Paul's teachings about just why God allows those bad days/weeks/years to happen and chart a course for how we can be happy in any circumstance. So bring your bad day and listen along and see if we can put a smile on your face!
Show Notes:
Russell M. Nelsons, "Joy and Spiritual Survival," October 2016.
"There are," Paul writes, "so many kinds of voices in the world." How true today, with so many and groups clamoring for our attention today Paul teaches the simple truths of the gospel and resurrection of Christ. Study along with us as we listen to one voice that will make all the difference.
Show Notes:
Paul taught that, just as there must be unity among different parts for the body to function, so too must there be unity among different members of a family/ward/church in order for that organization to work properly. Study with us this week as we learn what breaks the body and what heals it again.
Show Notes:
A simple definition of a temple is: a holy place dedicated to God. Of course we have many temples around the world, but in this study, Paul opens our minds to the idea that we can make our homes, our wards, our bedrooms, and our own personal lives into temples of God where His spirit can dwell. Study with us this week as we learn what defiles those temples and how we can dedicate or rededicate them to our Father in Heaven.
Show Notes:
In this bonus episode, recorded from our Facebook Live discussion for the Salt Gathering, we answer questions about scripture study--everything from how to make it a daily habit to how to dive deeper in your personal study.
Show Notes
Music: Blue Dot Sessions, "Weathervane," Creative Commons.
What kind of member of the Church are you? How would you describe yourself? In Paul's epistle to the Romans he addresses a faith group filled with people from different backgrounds and beliefs all trying to come together in Christ. In this episode we start where we are, with whatever level of faith or doubt we may have, and chart a course to unity in Christ and a true welcoming of all into his Church.
Show Notes:
Studio C clip about Mormon Misunderstanding
On his final missionary journey, headed to a city he had never visited, Paul wrote one of the most thorough, logical, and powerful epistles about the gospel of Jesus Christ. Of central concern for him is the topic of grace. Study with us this week as we learn from Paul how God's grace and Jesus' righteousness can free us from sin and help us walk in a "newness of life."
Show Notes:
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "The Gift of Grace," General Conference, April 2015.
The record of Paul's mission ends in front of governors and kings who, for one reason or another, don't heed his testimony. Why not? Why don't they, and why don't we heed the voice of apostolic warning more often? This final study in the Acts of the Apostles brings us face to face with our own obedience to commandments and challenges us to listen to our own, modern-day apostles and prophets.
Show Notes:
Spencer J. Condie, "A Mighty Change of Heart," General Conference, October 1993.
M. Russell Ballard, "Stay in the Boat and Hold On," General Conference, October 2010.
Paul stands up to preach in Athens next to a statue with the inscription, "To the Unknown God." Paul, in a stroke of typical sermonizing genius, tells the gathered Greeks just exactly who the unknown God is, the one that they are ignorant of, and the one he has come to love and worship. This week we study that same God and discuss what we know about him and how we come to know about him.
Show Notes:
Amy Tanner, "The Gift of Uncertainty," BYU Devotional, July 2019.
Russell M. Nelson, "Jesus the Christ: Our Master and More," General Conference, April 2000.
We believe . . . that God will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God, right? In this episode we study the monumental revelation given to Peter and learn, not only what that revelation means for us, but what the whole process illuminates about the way modern revelation works, but for us individually and for the Church as a whole.
Show Notes:
Sharon Eubank, "This Is a Woman's Church," Fair Mormon Conference, 2014.
Just what kind of person does God choose for his service? This week we study disciples ranging from the stalwart Stephen to the radically antagonistic Saul, both of whom God chooses to spread the gospel. As we study we look at ourselves and learn lessons for ourselves on how we can choose and be chosen.
Show Notes:
Dallin H. Oaks, "The Keys and Authority of the Priesthood," April 2014.
Luke, of course, wrote the Gospel of Luke wherein he detailed in great literary style Jesus' ministry. Luke also wrote the Acts of the Apostles to highlight how that ministry changed the lives and spiritual capacities of his apostles. Study with us this week as we see how people, like Peter the apostle, who have been changed by Christ now turn to changing the world.
Show Notes:
Russell M. Nelson, "Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives," April 2018.
Julie B. Beck, "And upon the Handmaids in Those Days Will I Pour Out My Spirit,” May 2010.
Over the past months we've come to know and love Jesus more as we've studied his teachings, his example, and his sacrifices for his disciples. Now, in this last episode in the gospels, we study his resurrection, his interactions with his disciples, and his commandments to them as they move forward in faith. We testify all the time that Jesus lives; in this episode we confirm that truth and discuss what exactly it means to us. Know him; love him; and tell others about him.
Show Notes
Jeffrey R. Holland, "The First Great Commandment," October 2012.
Everyone from Pilate to the soldiers to the Jews of the day were focused on the kingship of Jesus Christ. Pilate asked him if he was a king; the soldiers mocked him by putting a crown of thorns on his head; the Jews refused to accept him. Even the sign above his head on the cross read "King of the Jews." This week we study Jesus' final mortal acts as King. As we "view his death" we focus on those aspects of his final hours that "draw" us to him and make us want to accept him as our King!
Show Notes
Gaye Strathearn, "Christ’s Crucifixion: Reclamation of the Cross," RSC.
When you last took the sacrament you promised to "remember" Jesus; over the next two weeks we dive deep into just what it is that you are supposed to remember. This week, study with us Jesus' spiritual suffering, symbolized by his blood, and come to know and feel a greater love for his sacrifice.
Show Notes
Jeffrey R. Holland, "Always Remember Him," Video.
Dallin H. Oaks, "Strengthened by the Atonement of Jesus Christ," General Conference, October 2015.
The word "love" appears 34 times in John chapters 13-17. These chapters, encapsulating some of the Savior's final sermons, focus on his love for us and our love for him and for others. In fact, that's the "new" part of the "new commandment" he gives to us; it's not just about loving others, it's about loving others the way he loves us. Study with us this week as we learn just how to do that!
Show Notes
When we think of the Second Coming we often feel fear and apprehension. In this episode we're going to study in order to remove the fear and ease the apprehension by learning how we can prepare for the Savior's next advent.
Show Notes
David A. Bednar, "If Ye Had Known Me," General Conference, October 21.
Trees are supposed to bear fruit. Similarly, children of God are designed to bring forth "fruits". So what fruits does God expect us to bear? What stops us from bearing fruit? And what can we do to start bearing fruit?
Show Notes
Bruce R. McConkie, "Our Relationship with the Lord," BYU Speeches, 1982.
Who is the greatest in the kingdom? How can I be great? What more must I do to earn a great reward? These questions drive our study today as we learn Jesus' responses to similar questions posed to him. Want to know how to be great? Listen to the Great One; the answer isn't quite what you may think!
Show Notes
Bountiful Kitchen Lavain Cookies!
Henry B. Eyring, "A Renaissance of Marriage."
D. Todd Christofferson, "Why Marriage, Why Family," April 2015.
What happens when a sheep gets lost? Of course, the shepherd leaves the flock to rescue him. But what gets that sheep lost in the first place? What does God feel about those who get lost on purpose? And what can we do to help rescue others who feel lost? Those questions and more answered this week in our study.
Show Notes
Ezra Taft Benson, "The Great Commandment," General Conference, April 1988.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Believe, Love, Do," General Conference, October 2018.
A shepherd leads his flock, not by chasing after them with dogs, but by walking before them and calling to them. The flock follows him, not because they fear him, but because they recognize his voice and know his love and concern for them. This week we study some intimate experiences between the Master Shepherd and some of his sheep that illustrate that love and which will help us recognize His shepherding in our own, daily lives.
Show Notes
Joseph Smith, "The Elders of the Church in Kirtland," The Evening and Morning Star, March 1834.
John R. Lasater, "Shepherds of Israel," General Conference, April 1988.
In this bonus episode we interview Ashley Laneri, a seminary teacher and a soon-to-be Master of Religious Studies with a thesis on women in the Church. Starting with Mary and Martha from Luke 10 we move to tackling some hard-hitting questions about women in the Church. What is a woman's role in the Church? How can women break the cycle of comparison? And what can we all learn that helps us love God and love our neighbor better?
Show Notes
Sharon Eubank, "This Is a Woman's Church," Fair Mormon Conference, 2014.
Jeffrey R. Holland, "Laborers in the Vineyard," General Conference, April 2012.
After a wonderful Easter week where we studied and felt anew how much Jesus loves us we turn our attention this week to how we can better love God and our neighbors. Jesus taught some of the most powerful parables targeting these two, great commandments. Study with us this week as we uncover principles for greater love so we can keep the "greatest" commandments our Lord gives us.
Show Notes
Lynn G. Robbins, "Seventy Time Seven," General Conference, April 2018.
On Sunday he entered Jerusalem, on Monday he cleansed the temple, Tuesday and Wednesday he taught and Thursday through Sunday he suffered, died, and resurrected. What do each of these events symbolize in our relationship with Christ. Study this episode with us today in preparation of a daily worship of the Savior this Passion Week.
Show Notes
What is a testimony? What isn't a testimony? What does a testimony do? These are the questions we are asking as we study together this week.
Show Notes
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "A Testimony of Light and Truth," General Conference, October 2014.
Jeffrey R. Holland, "Lord, I Believe," General Conference, April 2013.
"Oh thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?" Imagining Jesus saying this to his chief apostle makes you think if he'd have need to say it to you. Study with us this week as we discuss fear and faith and how to retain our confidence despite our fears.
Show Notes
Neil F. Marriott, "Yielding Our Hearts to God," General Conference, October 2015.
Seminary Curriculum Announcement and more information
One of our all-time favorite talks (on anything, but especially on the feeding of the 5000): Gerritt W. Gong, "And Jesus Said unto Them: I am the Bread of Life," An Evening with a General Authority, January 2017.
All too often in our study of the parables we focus on the soil and forget the Sower. Jesus tells us that the purpose of the parables is to "convert" and "heal" us; so this week we study what we learn about the Sower, about the Merchant, about the Savior that makes us want to return to Him and be healed.
Show Notes
Kim B. Clark, "Eyes to See and Ears to Hear," General Conference, October 2015.
This is our first (of hopefully many) bonus episodes to compliment the week's study in the New Testament. This week Krista had the great privilege of talking to Rio Grange, founder of Work and Wonder, about all things General Conference. Listen in a get excited for the upcoming Conference.
Show Notes
Visit Work and Wonder for more about Rio and her awesome General Conference workbooks.
The word "apostle" simply means "one who was sent." In this sense, we are all apostles, sent by the Savior and, again today by our prophet, to teach and minister and help and heal. In this episode we study how to do all of that better.
Show Notes
Russell M. Nelson, "Hope of Israel," Worldwide Devotional for Youth, June 2018.
In a world of constant and violent persecution against those who follow Jesus, Mark writes stunning accounts of the Savior's miracles to remind Christians the reason and power behind their faith. As we study this week amidst a world of modern persecutions we draw from these stories of physical healing truths about the Savior's ability to heal us spiritually.
Show Notes
Part 2 of the Sermon on the Mount: Jesus counsels his newly called disciples to "take heed" or, in other words, to beware of some things that could damage their and others' discipleship. This week, study how to create personal, private, and holy discipleship of the Savior.
Show Notes
Carol F. McConkie, "The Beauty of Holiness," General Conference, April 2017.
Although the crowds followed Jesus he went up into a mountain and his disciples, came to him and learned from him how to leave the crowd behind and be true follower. Study with us as we examine our own discipleship and consider what we can do to be more "blessed", salt the earth and light the world, live the higher law, and become perfect.
Show Notes
Jean Bingham, "That Your Joy Might Be Full," General Conference, October 2017.
"Except a man be born again he cannot see the kingdom of God." This pronouncement from the Savior is about so much more than baptism, it's about Christ's desire to change us, as he is able to change so many things, in something fit for the Kingdom. Study with us in this episode to learn how he can change you!
Show Notes
Victor L. Brown, "The Vision of the Aaronic Priesthood," General Conference, October 1975.
L. Whitney Clayton, "Whatsoever He Saith Unto You," General Conference, April 2017.
Brad Wilcox, "His Grace is Sufficient," BYU Devotional, July 2011.
For some, the greatest stresses and worries in life come from external temptations; for many others, the internal temptations to doubt, disparage, and discourage can be the most damaging. In this episode we study Jesus' wrestle with these kinds of temptations in search for how we, like Him, can stand strong.
Show Notes
J. Reuben Clark, "The Charted Course of the Church in Education."
Richard G. Scott, "First Things First," General Conference, April 2001.
Howard W. Hunter, "The Temptations of Christ," General Conference, October 1976.
We know what John the Baptist did, but we spend far less time studying what he said. This episode we study the "voice crying in the wilderness" and learn what he has to teach about repentance, some truths that, if understood, will change the way we view repentance!
Show Notes
Jeffrey R. Holland, "For Times of Trouble," BYU Devotional
Dan McKinley, "Don't Hide from God," Hi Five Live
John's gospel gives us an up-close, intimate, unique, and tangible account of Jesus' ministry. John wants us to remember our own personal relationship with Christ. This week we come to "see" Jesus in a new light, "see" ourselves the way he does, and "see" others with more love and optimism.
Show Notes
Bible in picture: She Reads Truth Bible
"Worship is essential and central to our spiritual life." That quote gets at the heart of our study this week. What is worship really? What does it look like? And how can we do it better and more powerfully in our own relationships with the Savior? This week we learn from some of the first to worship Jesus just how to worship him ourselves.
Show Notes
Websites with different Bible translations: BibleHub, BibleGateway
Dean M. Davies, "The Blessings of Worship," General Conference, October 2016.
We know the beginning of the story of Jesus, but everything from his parentage to his annunciation was unexpected to both those in his day and early readers of the gospels. What happens when God unexpectedly calls on unexpected people to do unexpected things? What happens when he calls you? Study with us in this episode to start finding out!
Show Notes
Gaye Strathearn, "Mary, the Mother of Jesus," Ensign, January 2019.
Season 2 of the Scripture Study Project is underway with this study of what exactly happens when we respond to Jesus' invitation to "Come, follow me." Learn with us how your study of the New Testament this year can help you get to know your Savior better, see yourself clearer, and change from a simple "Simon, son of Jonas" into Peter, the rock!
Show Notes
D. Todd Christofferson, "The Blessings of Scripture," Mormon Message
Jeffrey R. Holland, "The First Great Commandment," General Conference, October 2012.
Music Credit: Blue Dot Sessions, "Weathervane."
We're gearing up for season 2 of The Scripture Study Project. Here's just a brief preview of coming attractions all aimed at helping you have powerful experiences with the scriptures that change your life and excite you to teach others!
Show Notes:
Russell M. Nelson, "Becoming Exemplary Latter-day Saints," Ensign, October 2018.
House Churches - Acts 1:12-13 (see mentions also Romans 16:3-5, 1 Cor 16:19)
Music Credit: Blue Dot Sessions, "Weathervane."
Season Finale! We study Moroni's final exhortations and share a few of our own. Has your study of the Book of Mormon brought you joy? Conviction? Or even a bit of perfection in your life? It has for us! Listen as we study and share. Also, as a bonus, hear the preview of what's coming on Season 2 of the Scripture Study Project!
Life is filled with choices. Period. We must constantly choose between, not just good an evil, but often between good and good! Moroni, knowing this about our day, inserts in chapter 7 a sermon from his father all about judging between choices and learning how to "lay hold of every good thing." Study with us this week and learn for yourself!
In a world that's as bleak and depressing as has ever been recorded in scripture Moroni must, and does, stand strong and hold to his faith. When we're called upon to do something difficult, maybe in the face of opposition and hopelessness, can we stand with Moroni and proclaim, "I will not deny the Christ"? In this episode we study how to do just that!
The story of the Jaredites is one of mostly misery and destruction; however, against that black, satin cloth is set one of the most amazing diamonds in the Book of Mormon: Moroni's discourse on faith and hope in chapter 12. This week with special guest Garret Shields we study the diamond and learn how to anchor our souls when on life's turbulent seas.
Remember the Bible story about the Tower of Babel and the confusing of the languages? In this episode we study the story of the brother of Jared to better understand what confounds and, more importantly, what unconfounds our communication with God. If you want to know how to talk to and hear from God better, listen in and study along!
"I even remain alone to write the sad tale of the destruction of my people," says Moroni, the last Nephite prophet. With such a depressing task, and with pressures in our own lives that may feel daunting and depressing, what miracles does Moroni see that lift his soul and sustain his faith? Come, meet the God of miracles!
Everything we've read in the Book of Mormon this year has come through his hand, yet we haven't really met him yet. This episode, we meet Mormon, the man behind the book, and learn how to be a disciple of Christ even in the worst of times.
It didn't look like Roger Banister was on track to break the four-minute mile barrier, but he did. It looked like the Nephites were on track for continual righteousness, and they fell. What can we learn from the rise and fall of the Nephites about finishing out our own races and building a happy people/family/class/group?
If you were to be granted one wish, what would you choose? What if it were Jesus himself granting your desire? And what if that greatest desire you had was to be able to minister to your "people" (family, friends, neighbors, etc.) In this episode we study how to minister better!
You know what "faith" means? It means you can trust someone, that you have confidence in them. We can have faith in Jesus Christ because he keeps his promises; he fulfills the all commandments and promises he's ever made. In this episode we study just a few of those promises and fulfillments so our confidence in him will increase!
Someone once asked President Kimball what he did in boring church meetings. He replied, "I don't know; I've never been in one." On this episode we learn from Jesus himself how to turn some interactions and meetings in our lives that can sometimes become boring, repetetive, or stale into intensely spiritual experiences. Listen and learn how to transform your relationship with your children, your experience in sacrament meeting, and even your personal prayers.
"...who come unto me..." is one of the Savior's unique additions to his sermon at the temple to the Nephites. In this episode we study how we can come unto the Savior so that he can perfect us and help us become like the Father.
"The Savior doesn't care about us . . . . He cares about you, and he cares about me." This quote, although somewhat provocative, strikes at the heart of a fundamental truth about Jesus--He ministers one by one. In this episode we put ourselves in the shoes of the Nephites in Bountiful who got to witness His coming one by one. What would you say, feel, think, or do if you had an individual moment with Jesus?
Spencer W. Kimball once said that the Book of Mormon story right before the coming of Christ parallels what will happen in our own day before the Second Coming of Christ. What happened then that we recognize today? And, more importantly, how can we prepare ourselves for what lies ahead for us and our families? This episode, join us as we study how to fight spiritual "infections" and protect and preserve our families for the coming of Christ.
Surprise! The Nephites are bad; the Lamanites are good; a Lamanite is a prophet and is preaching to Nephites! In this episode we pull from this surprising story some surprising, non-traditional reasons why we should listen to the men and women on the walls in our city.
The pride cycle is well known and oft-discussed but what we never talk about is how to stop it. Like a bike tire rolling there seems to be something almost inevitable about pride. Well, study with us this week as we stop the pride cycle by giving it a flat tire and disrupting pride in our own lives.
In this episode we meet some of the most destructive villains in the Book of Mormon and it's not the leaders of the armies or bands of robbers. What do you do against an enemy who is focused on your complete destruction? Find out as we study together.
Last episode we learned how to wage and win your own, individual battles against the adversary. In this episode we peer between the lines to see how to win the even-more-serious family battles. In short, what did the Book of Mormon's most incredible youth group learned from perhaps the Book's most incredible parents?
Have you ever felt like life, your life, was a war? Ever felt like you were fighting just to keep your faith against an enemy who seems bent set on destroying it? In this episode we study the strategies and tactics in the war chapters of the Book of Mormon that will help us all fight harder, be braver, and win more individual battles.
"Life isn't fair!" Agreed, but the real question is: is God fair? And if so, is He also merciful? Can He be both at the same time? Is He both for you? This week we unravel the sometimes tricky relationship between justice and mercy.
You can almost hear Alma's emotion as he begins his letter to his son Helaman, "I swear to you..." What is it that has Alma so passionate? This week we look at small and simple things Alma "swears" will make a difference in your life.
Pervert (pər-ˈvərt) - verb: to alter something from its original, right, or moral state. So what does perverted prayer look like? How about perverted faith? Listen this week to see how you can help overcome repetitive, rote prayers and stale, stagnant faith.
"I'd like to bear my testimony; I know the Church is true." So starts many a testimony, but we have to ask ourselves, is our goal really to "know the Church is true?" In this espisode, Alma guides us through an experiment where we can gain some tangible, enlightening evidence of more than just whether or not something is true.
S.E.E.D. Study Guide - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BmLcm7urdNGqVJc5fsv0NYBw6lvG9oOP/view?usp=sharing
The adversary, just like a magician, has certain tricks and deceptions he uses to tempt sin or instigate doubt. However, the adversary, just like a magician, hates when his secrets are revelealed. In this episde that's just what we'll do.
The Anti-Nephi-Lehis, the group of converted Lamanites in the Book of Mormon, are incredible, right? They lay down their weapons of war, forsake their past and their homeland, and gain a faith so strong that they literally sacrifice their life for it. Wanna know how to become converted like them? Listen in to this week's episode, part 2 of our study of the missionary chapters in Alma.
We know we could, we know we should, by sometimes sharing our faith with others is hard. In this episdoe we study the incredible example of the sons of Mosiah and their mission to the Lamanites to learn a fresh and faithful approach to missionary service.
Ever wonder why, when you feel like you are doing all the right things in all the right ways, that you fail? You pray, you fast, you obey, and you feel like you're responding to promptings, but God doesn't grant you the success you'd hoped? In this episode, we study to see that sometimes our failures are really just the seed for God's greater success.
Perhaps the biggest topic in the gospel, the Atonement of Jesus Christ, and Alma helps us understand some things that maybe we've been missing, some things that, if we get right, will bring a joy to our day and balm to our sorrows. Listen in to what Alma teaches people who are ready to hear the best he has to teach.
You can gauge the health of your physical heart by checking your pulse, but what about your spiritual heart? Is there a way to assess the strength of your testimony, your conversion, or your relationship with God? In this episode Alma plays the role of spiritual physician and asks some hard, heart-hitting questions the form, for us, a sort of spiritual cardiogram. How are you doing?
Show Notes:
Alma's Spiritual Cardiogram - jpg: https://1drv.ms/u/s!AoPMl35TcIX9xxY68zdIqp05b63y
In these first chapters of Alma we meet a converted prophet, an anti-Christ, and a rebel politician and study what to do with "wonderful contentions" in our lives. Book of Alma, here we come!
We all have times when we or someone we love "falls out of the boat" of faith or belief. In this episode we study what kings, prophets, and God himself things and does about people who fall out of the boat. What do you do if it's you? What do you do if it's someone you love?
"Is the load I am carrying creating sufficient spiritual traction so I ultimately can return home to Heavenly Father?" That question, asked by Elder Bednar, is our focus this episode. How do I bear my burdens, and how can I minster to others and bear their burdens?
Show notes:
Ministering training video: https://www.lds.org/mycalling/ministering/effective-ministering?lang=eng
Elder Bednar talk: https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/bear-up-their-burdens-with-ease?lang=eng
Want to know what are, perhpaps, the two most crucial questions you could possibly be asked? In this episose we watch Abinadi withstand Noah and his priests with complete conviction is his God and in his own calling.
In this episode we study Zeniff, a good guy who messes up, gets himself stuck, and has to find a way to get out. Sound familiar to you? What do we do to get ourselves in spiritual bondage, and how can we get out?
Do you have "seasons of peace" mixed with "seasons of war" in your life? In your family's life? Would you like to have "continual peace"? King Benjamin knows how!
God actually talked to Enos; so what did Enos do to start the process? This episode gives a few powerful principles of "mighty prayer" that could change your relationship with God!
Ever wonder how God feels about you? Jacob 5 is the longest chapter in the Book of Mormon and one of the best because it is, in essence, God's love letter to you!
We all have faith-shaking temptations and experiences. Where do they come from? And how can you, like Jacob, become "unshakable"?
How many times (a day) have you had a question to which there seems no clear-cut, easy-to-find answer? In this episode we dive into the promise and the practices that help us to know, as the scriptures say, "all things"!
Nephi the seer sees our day and sees Satan working to "drag us down," but he also sees a way to stop that from happening. In this episode we study how to make Nephi's promise that "Satan will have power...no more" come true for you!
With Isaiah, it often ends up being, "I say, 'Huh?'" In this episode, with special guests Garret Shields and Dan McKinley, we give some study tips and insights that will make you exclaim, "I say, 'AHA!'"
Are we saved by grace or by works? Are Mormons Christian? How on earth can I crack the mystery of Isaiah? All these questions and more answered this week as we get ready for (and dive a bit into) the Isaiah chapters.
We don't need to be afraid of judgment! In this episode we study three things we underestimate about God that, if we can get right, will make the thought of final judgment one of joy and excitement rather than fear and anxiety.
Are you feeling a little spiritually sleepy? Or know someone who is? In this episode we study Lehi's teachings to his sons that help them "wake up!" and fight off the chains of the adversary.
In a world that seems, often, dark and depressing we can find hope in some amazing truths about Jesus from some traditionally tricky Isaiah chapters. In this episode we study a prophet quoting a prophet teaching us why we can have hope.
How do you build a boat (or any other big thing you feel God is asking you to do)? How do you do hard things when sometimes you feel so small? And once you decide you can do it, how do you actually do it? In this episode we discover three principles that can help us do new, big, hard things!
How can I get myself and my family to the Tree of Life? In this episode we take a closer look at one of the most well-known symbols in the Book of Mormon and pull out helpful principles for drawing ourselves and our families closer to God's love.
How do I become the person God wants me to be? We study 1 Nephi 2-4 looking for how Nephi went from being "young" to being a "man" and how we can do the same.
What do I do when things start going wrong in my life or in my family? In this episode we study the first chapter of the Book of Mormon in search of how we can deal with destruction in our own lives.
In our first pilot episode we introduce the who, what, when, where, how and WHY of our scripture study podcast and give a small sample of things to come!